Retractable storage system

ABSTRACT

A retractable storage system for a handheld electronic device includes a protective housing member operative shaped and sized to bound the handheld electronic device and enable wrapping around the handheld electronic device. At least one accessory station structured is on the housing member, and has an aperture to arrest and dispense an accessory item. At least one storage chamber is structured on the housing member to store the accessory item. The protective housing member has a first housing part and a second housing part which combine to form one protective housing member.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/072,374 filed Oct. 29, 2014, which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety.

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. applicationSer. No. 14/740,179 filed Jun. 15, 2015, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 62/012,334 filed Jun. 14, 2014, whichis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety

U.S. application Ser. No. 14/740,179 filed Jun. 15, 2015 is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/711,735 filed May13, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/503,467 filed Oct. 1, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,065,921, which is acontinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/182,645 filed Feb. 18,2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,879,773, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 13/872,157 filed Apr. 29, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No.8,774,446, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/639,968 filed Apr. 29, 2012, each of which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

U.S. application Ser. No. 13/872,157 filed Apr. 29, 2013, now U.S. Pat.No. 8,774,446, is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. ApplicationNo. 29/430,245 filed Aug. 23, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. D698,772, which isa continuation-in-part application of U.S. Application No. 29/417,184filed Mar. 30, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. D667,823, each of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

U.S. application Ser. No. 13/872,157 filed Apr. 29, 2013, now U.S. Pat.No. 8,774,446, is a continuation of PCT Application No.PCT//US2013/038599 filed Apr. 29, 2013, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/639,968 filed Apr. 29, 2012 and U.S.Application Ser. No. 29/430,245 filed Aug. 23, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No.D698,772, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a cable retraction system for use withportable electronic devices, more particularly, the present inventionprovides a retractable storage system incorporating an independent cableretraction system for storing retractable cables and earphones of theportable electronic device.

2. Description of the Related Art

Handheld electronic devices are becoming more and more popular asconsumer goods and are frequently used in performing our dailycommunication needs. Devices like the iPhone™, iPad™, iPod™,Blackberry™, cell phones, mobile video players, KINDLE™ eReaders,Android™ devices are now intimate parts of daily life. This popularityhas created a desire for protective cases well as varieties of choicefor aesthetic freshness that enable these devices with a look ofconsumer-preferred style with modest cost. Additionally these protectivecases have become increasingly armored (stronger) to protect againstunintended breakage.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,648,027, the entire contents of which areenclosed by reference, describes a protective apparatus to accommodate aportable device, such as a cell phone, with a wire-wrap member attachedat the back panel. It does not address the problem of tangledheadphone/earbud cable when it is wound in such a manner. Theheadphone/earbud cable can not only become damaged, but tangles areinadvertently created.

US Patent Pub. No. 2011/0233078, also incorporated herein by reference,describes a holder design for portable devices that also provides astorage compartment for earphones. It uses a spring loaded type rewinderwhich can subject the headphone/earbud cable to undue pressure. Thespring loaded rewinder can create drastic, uncontrollable speed of therotating wheel upon release of the spring loaded mechanism to rewind thecable, thereby damaging and/or shortening the life of the cable. Also ofrelated example are U.S. Published Application No. 2011/0170732(Parker), U.S. Pat. No. 6,731,956 (Hanna et al.), and U.S. PublishedApplication No. 2010/0279743 (Sim), the contents of all of which areincorporated herein by reference. Each of these devices utilizes aspring loaded mechanism to retract the headphone/earbud cable. Thesespring loaded device can create drastic, uncontrollable speed of therotating wheel or spring reel upon release of the spring loadedmechanism to rewind/retract the cable, thereby subjecting the cables toundue pressure, and damaging and/or shortening the life of the cable.

Accordingly, the claimed invention proceeds upon the desirability ofproviding a storage system for handheld electronic device that safelyretracts and stores items.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Proposed is a novel carrier system with built-in retractableearphone/earbud system that accommodates a variety of earphone stylesand is adaptable for a variety of handheld electronic devices aredisclosed.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aneasy to put on carrier case, can be made of molded plastic having awrap-around side walls, a back panel and an open front aperture for ahandheld electronic device to slide into. The back panel being ofmonolithic construction and having an enlarged compartment built at thetop area for inclusion with an earbud station. The earbud stationprovides secure fixed hosting seats for a pair of pullable or ejectableearbuds/earphones to sit into when not being used. Various apertures areconfigured in the wrap-around side walls to allow direct access tovarious buttons on the electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, apair of bounded regions or chambers with related wire channels forcontaining earphone/ear bud cables are configured monolithically anddirectly in the back panel. Earphones/earbuds with their long cablesbeing wrapped into the chambers, and a channel to allow the plug head tobe fixedly held at the earbud station for easily plug in to theheadphone jack of a handheld device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, amiddle panel, or cassette member, is configured similarly with a pair ofchambers and operable wire channels for containing and guidingearphone/earbud cables.

In accordance exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, one of thechambers is fixedly mounted with an exterior antenna/transmitter IC chipthat provides a secondary amplification for a cell phone signal,providing a solution for limited cell phone signal amplification due tospace limitation inside a cell phone (such as an iPhone™ or an iPad™).

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member having a back panel and plurality of sidewalls forming a bounding member operative shaped and sized to bound thehandheld device and enable wrapping around the handheld device. Anenlarged compartment is configured proximate the back panel,intersecting with a top side wall of the housing member. The top sidewall forms an aperture in connecting with the compartment. An accessorystation is mounted inside the compartment and forms aperture structurefor arresting and dispensing an accessory item of the handheld device. Aremovable middle panel is removably mounted inside the housing member,in parallel to the back panel, having a top edge neighboring and belowthe enlarged compartment. One or more storage chambers are structured onthe removable middle panel for storing the accessory item, connectingwith one or more channels wherein the channels leading to the accessorystation.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises at least oneearphone cable with a earbud and a plug head, and at least oneretractable mechanism which is operably mounted inside one of thestorage chamber for automatically retracting a cable for storage. Theearbud is removably secured in said accessory station, the cable beingremovably coiled within a spring-biased spool of said retractablemechanism, and a plug head of said cable being connected to a earphonejack of the handheld device, wherein said earphone is pulled from theaccessory station with the cable extending from said storage chamberwhen in use.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a friction based brakingsystem to reduce a rotational speed of the spring-biased spool duringthe refraction of the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid friction based braking system comprises at least one dampingpad to reduce the rotational speed of the spring-biased spool during theretraction of the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a retraction button tocontrol the retractable mechanism to retract the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retraction button is a spring loaded such that the retractionbutton remains in or returns to a first position unless the retractionbutton is moved and held at a second position to retract the cable tothe storage chamber.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a plug head actuationsystem for operably removing and connecting the plug head of the cableto the earphone of the handheld device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises an accessory button todispense the earbud from the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory button is a spring loaded such that the accessorybutton remains in or returns to a first position unless the accessorybutton is moved and held at a second position to dispense the earbudfrom the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a pair of earphones, eachconnected to a separate cable, and two retractable mechanism. Eachretractable mechanism is mounted inside its respective storage chamberfor automatically retracting is respective cable. Each retractablemechanism is independently controlled such that each cable isindependently retractable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a first and secondretraction buttons to independently control the respective retractablemechanism.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,each aforesaid retraction button is a spring loaded such that eachretraction button remains in or returns to a first position unless eachretraction button is moved and held at a second position to retract therespective cable to the respective storage chamber.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a headphone cable with anaudio plug and a headphone plug, and a retractable mechanism which isoperably mounted inside a storage chamber for automatically retractingthe headphone cable for storage. The headphone plug is removably securedin the accessory station. The headphone cable is removably coiled withina spring-biased spool of the retractable mechanism. The audio plug headis connected to a earphone jack of the handheld device. The headphoneplug is pulled from the accessory station with the cable extending fromthe storage chamber for use with a headphone.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a retraction button tocontrol the retractable mechanism to retract said headphone cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a pair of earphones, eachconnected to a separate magnetized cable. Each magnetized cable ismagnetically attracted to each other to form a single cable which can beremovably coiled within the same spring-biased spool of the retractablemechanism. The earphone is pulled from the accessory station with thesingle cable extending from the storage chamber and peelable into twoseparate cables when in use.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory item is at least one of the following: a lip balm, alipstick, a cigarette or a cigar. The aforesaid retractable storagesystem further comprises an accessory button to dispense the accessoryitem from the storage chamber through the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises at least one batterymounted inside a storage chamber for charging at least an accessory itemor the handheld device. The accessory station is a charging stationwhich is electrically connected to the battery to charge the accessoryitem stored within the charging station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory item is a wireless earbuds or e-cigarettes. Theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises an accessorybutton to dispense the accessory item from the charging station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid accessory station comprises a station adapter configured withelastic material to adjust the aperture size of the accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a plurality of coloredLEDs to display a logo, advertisement or aesthetically pleasing patternson the back panel of the housing member. The handheld electronic deviceis operably connected to the LEDs to control and change the patterns,logo or advertisement displayed by the LEDs.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member, at least one cable with a plug head and anend piece, and at least one retractable mechanism to retract and storethe cable. At least one accessory station configured to dispense andstore the end piece of the cable. The retractable mechanism comprises agroove track system to control a rotational movement of the retractablemechanism. The groove track system further comprises a groove trackcomponent to enable and disable the rotational movement of theretractable mechanism. Preferably, the aforesaid groove track componentis at least one ball bearing.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a first area, a second areaand a third area. The first area is configured to store a retractablelength of the cable. The second area is configured to store an excessportion of the cable. The third area is configured to store a powerspring. Preferably, the aforesaid the first area and the aforesaidsecond area are coplanar on a single plane with the third area.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises electricalcontacts or slip rings to electrically connect at least two sections ofthe cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid end piece is located in a first section of the cable and theaforesaid plug head is located in a second section of the cable. Theelectrical contacts or slip rings is configured to move or rotate thefirst section of the cable independent of the second section of thecable while maintaining an electrical connection.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid groove track component is activated in response to the cablebeing pulled from the retractable mechanism. Preferably, the cable is aflat cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises a plug headactuation system. The plug actuation system comprises a component tooperably remove or connect the plug head of the cable to a port of thehandheld electronic device. Preferably, the aforesaid end piece is oneof the following accessory items: an earbud, earphone, headphone oraudio plug.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises one or morestorage chambers. Preferably, at least one battery mounted inside one ofthe storage chambers to charge the handheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device, comprisesat least one cable with a plug head and an end piece, at least oneretractable mechanism for retracting and storing the cable, and a plughead actuation system. The plug head actuation system comprises acomponent to operably remove or connect the plug head of the cable to aport of the handheld electronic device. The component is configured todrive the plug head to lift or lower the plug head from a port of thehandheld electronic device. The retractable mechanism comprises a firstarea, a second area and a third area. The first area is configured tostore a retractable length of the cable. The second area is configuredto store an excess portion of the cable. The third area is configured tostore a power spring. Preferably, the conductors within the cable areconstructed in a co-planar, single plane arrangement. The first area andthe second area of the retractable mechanism are coplanar on a singleplane with the third area.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a groove track system tocontrol a rotational movement of the retractable mechanism. The groovetrack system further comprises a groove track component to enable anddisable the rotational movement of the retractable mechanism.Preferably, the groove track component is at least one ball bearing. Theend piece is one of the following accessory items: an earbud, earphone,headphone or audio plug.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises one or morestorage chamber. Preferably, at least one battery mounted inside one ofthe storage chambers to charge the handheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member, at least one cable with a plug head and anend piece, and at least one retractable mechanism to retract and storethe cable. At least one accessory station configured to dispense andstore the end piece of the cable. The cable comprises at least threeconductors constructed in a generally co-planar, single planearrangement.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid cable is configured to be peelable in at least two sections.Preferably, the cable comprises a reinforcing element to increase atensile strength of the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid cable comprises a microphone. The microphone further comprisesa housing with a control button configured to operate at least one ofthe following functions of the handheld electronic device: playing,pausing, forwarding, rewinding, skipping, volume controlling and callanswering.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system further comprises a plug headactuation system comprising a component to operably remove or connectthe plug head of the cable to a port of the handheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a first area, a second areaand a third area. The first area is configured store the retractablelength of the cable. The second area is configured to store an excessportion of the cable. The third area is configured to store a powerspring. Preferably, the first area and second area of the retractablemechanism are coplanar on a single plane with the third area.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable mechanism comprises a groove track system tocontrol a rotational movement of the retractable mechanism. The groovetrack system further comprises a groove track component to enable anddisable the rotational movement of the retractable mechanism.Preferably, the groove track component is at least one ball bearing.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member operative shaped and sized to bound thehandheld electronic device and enable wrapping around the handheldelectronic device. At least one accessory station is structured on thehousing member, and has an aperture to arrest and dispense an accessoryitem. At least one storage chamber is structured on the housing memberto store the accessory item. The protective housing member comprises afirst housing part and a second housing part which combine to form oneprotective housing member.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid first housing part comprises at least one accessory stationand at least one storage chamber. The second housing part is operablysecured to the handheld electronic device. The first housing part isremovable so that the second housing part is usable as a stand-aloneprotective housing for the handheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a door or lid configuredto cover the aperture of at least one accessory station.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a slot or compartmentstructured on the protective housing member to store the door or lid.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises at least one cable with aplug head and an end piece.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises at least one retractablemechanism mounted inside at least one storage chamber to retract andstore at least one cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a plug head actuationsystem comprising a component to operably connect or disconnect anelectrical signal between the plug head of the cable to a port of thehandheld electronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises ahousing comprising two housing parts. A first housing part and a secondhousing part couple to form a single housing. At least one accessorystation is structured on the housing, and has an aperture to arrest anddispense an accessory item. One or more storage chambers are structuredon the housing to store the accessory item. The first housing part andthe second housing part couple to form a waterproof and weatherproofseal to protect the handheld electronic device from water, moisture,dust and debris.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises one or more channelsstructured on the housing to receive a sealing element to provide anairtight, waterproof, seal or bond. The sealing element is one of thefollowing: a gasket, a rubber edge or a compressible foam.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a transparent membrane orprotective screen cover secured on the housing proximate to a frontscreen of the handheld electronic device allowing a user to interfacewith and access touch screen features of the handheld electronic devicethrough the transparent membrane or protective screen cover.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises a coupling element tosecure the sealing element between the first housing part and the secondhousing part.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid coupling element is one of the following: a hinged door, aclasping mechanism, a snap-down or snap-in element.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid housing comprises one or more control elements to operate acorresponding control of the handheld electronic device. Each controlelement comprises a molded overlay to seal the control element and toenhance usability of the control element by a user.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid housing comprises a sound membrane material located aroundacoustic apertures or sound ports of the handheld electronic device. Thesound membrane material is configured to allow transmission of sound toand from the handheld electronic device through the housing and toremain impermeable to liquid.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device comprises aprotective housing member and at least one cable with a plug head and anend piece. At least one accessory station to dispense and store the endpiece of the cable. One or more storage chambers are structured on theprotective housing member to store an accessory item. At least oneretractable mechanism operably mounted inside one of the storagechambers to retract and store the cable. The retractable mechanismcomprises a groove track system to control a rotational movement of theretractable mechanism. The groove track system comprises a groove trackcomponent to enable and disable the rotational movement of theretractable mechanism. The groove track component is at least one pin,rod or latch.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid retractable storage system comprises electrical contacts orslip rings to electrically connect at least two sections of the cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid end piece is located in a first section of the cable and theplug head is located in a second section of the cable. The electricalcontacts or slip rings are configured to move or rotate the firstsection of the cable independent of the second section of the cablewhile maintaining an electrical connection.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theaforesaid groove track component is activated in response to the cablebeing pulled from the mechanism.

The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become apparent from the following description read inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like referencenumerals designate the same elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a retractable storage system housing ahandheld device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged partially cut-away view of the upper side of thecompartment area for earphone/earbud station in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable storage systemfor storing earphone cables and a handheld electronic device forassembling together in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the retractable storage systemof FIG. 3, a removable panel for storing earphone cables and a handhelddevice for assembling together in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable storage systemfor storing earphone cables in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view of the retractable storage system ofFIG. 5 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary front view of a retractable store system inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 8 is an exemplary back view of a retractable storage system inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 9 is an exemplary right side view of a retractable storage systemin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary left side view of a retractable storage systemin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 11 is an exemplary top side view of a retractable storage system inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 12 is an exemplary bottom side view of a retractable storage systemin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 13A-B are exemplary illustrative views of an operativewedge-actuation system for removing and re-installing an audio jackelement (3.5 mm type or other) from the electronic device in accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 14 is an exemplary illustrative view of an operativelever-actuation system for removing and re-installing an audio jackelement from the electronic device in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 15 is an exemplary illustrative exemplary view of an operativetwist-actuation system for removing and re-installing an audio jackelement from the electronic device in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 16 is a partial section view of the retractable storage system withbattery chambers in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 17 is an exemplary perspective view of the retractable storagesystem for storing, charging and dispensing wireless earbuds inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 18 is an exemplary back view of the retractable storage system witha plurality of colored LEDs in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable mechanism forstoring and retracting a cable in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 20A-B are perspective views of a retractable storage system with aretractable mechanism engaged and disengaged, respectively, forretracting a cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIGS. 21A-B are perspective views of a retractable storage system with aretractable mechanism and a friction based braking system disengaged andengaged, respectively, for controlling the speed of the spring loadedspool in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable mechanism forstoring and retracting a cable in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a retractable storage systemwith a retractable mechanism for storing and retracting earphone cablein accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 24A-B are exploded perspective view of the retractable mechanismfor storing and housing earphone cables with a retraction button tocontrol the retraction mechanism and an accessory button to dispense apair of earbuds from an accessory station in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 25A-B are back view and perspective view of a retractable storagesystem for storing, charging and dispensing e-cigarette in accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 26A-B are back view and perspective view of a retractable storagesystem for storing and dispensing a headphone plug/cable for use with astandard headphone in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the cable retractor in accordance withan exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 28A-B are exploded top and bottom perspective views of the cableretractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 29A is an exploded perspective view of the reel of the cableretractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 29B is a perspective view of the reel of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 30 is a top view of the inside of the reel of the cable retractorwithout the cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 31 is a top view of the inside of the reel of the cable retractorwith the cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 32 is an exploded side perspective view of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of the bottom housing of the cableretractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 34 is a side perspective views of the bottom of the reel and thebottom housing of the cable retractor in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 35 is an exploded front side perspective view of the retractablestorage system incorporating the cable retractor and the portableelectronic device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 36 is an exploded rear side perspective view of the retractablestorage system incorporating the cable retractor in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 37 is a view of the peelable/splitable cable in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 38 is a view of the microphone housing of the peelable/splitablecable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 39A-B are views of the peelable/splitable cable with the cabley-split reinforcing component in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of the cable conductors of thepeelable/splitable cable in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention;

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of the cable conductors of thepeelable/splitable cable with the cable tensile strength component inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 42A-D are views of the relative rotational movements of the ballbearing/pin tip and the groove track of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 43A-F are views of the relative rotational movements of the ballbearing/pin tip and the groove track during various operational modes ofthe cable retractor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 44 is a view of the groove track of the cable retractor inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIG. 45 is a view of the second face of the reel of the cable retractorwith the contacts in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the bottom housing of the cableretractor with the slip rings in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention;

FIGS. 47A-B are side views of the weatherproof housing system inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 48A-F are front, side, back and top views of the weatherproofhousing system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 49 is a view of self powered electric generating and batterycharging system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention;

FIG. 50 is a view of a retractable storage system with removable backhousing in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIG. 51 is views of a retractable storage system with independentsubassemblies that form a single mounting structure in accordance withan exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 52A-C are views of a retractable storage system with two housingsections in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention;

FIGS. 53A-55B are views of a retractable storage system withinterchangeable modules in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention;

FIGS. 56A-B are perspective views of pin style cable retraction systemin accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 57A-C are perspective views of the door slot in accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention;

FIGS. 58A-E are perspective views of the cable retraction system mountedwith the interior of vehicles in accordance with exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention; and

FIGS. 59A-F are perspective views of the cable retraction system mountedwithin helmets in accordance with exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention; and

FIGS. 60A-E are perspective views of the cable retraction system mountedwithin clothing in accordance with exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the claimedinvention. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals areused in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or likeparts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not toprecise scale. For purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional(up/down, etc.) or motional (forward/back, etc.) terms may be used withrespect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should notbe construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner.

It will be understood that the phrases earbud and earphone, singularlyor in plural form, may be used interchangeably and without limitation,such that earbud(s) or an earphone(s) system or element can beunderstood to operate in accordance with this inventive disclosure.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figuresillustrate the general manner of construction, and description anddetails of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the invention.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in thedescription and the claims, if any, may be used for distinguishingbetween similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particularsequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the termsso used are interchangeable. It is also understood, that the phrasesembodiment or version may be used interchangeably and without unduelimitation. There is no restriction such that an embodiment is more orless restrictive or definitive than a version of the present invention.Furthermore, the terms “comprise,” “consisting of”, “include,” “have,”and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusiveinclusions, such that a process, method, article, apparatus, orcomposition that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limitedto those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listedor inherent to such process, method, article, apparatus, or composition.

It is contemplated and intended that the operative embodiments orversions of the claimed invention may be readily modified to anysuitable handheld devices of any size that provides an audio output orinterconnection system and thus may take earbud/earphone jacks; forclarity reason, the examples are given based on IPOD™ or IPHONE™ butwill be understood to apply to any hand-held device, cell phone, smartphone, computer, laptop, tablet, ereader or otherwise withoutlimitations. The case shapes may be molded with metal, rubber, plastic,or of any other formable material or combination of materials havingvariable module(s) of elasticity. Thus a rigid plastic bottom may beco-molded with a more flexible plastic side wall, and a slick-slipperysided guide channel portions. A variety of colors and material patternsmay be used for styles and fashions.

In reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, handheld electronic device system 110,for example, an IPOD™/IPHONE™ is contained inside the housing 111 ofcarrier case 100. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, housing 111 is made of a thin layer of plastic,leather material, rubber or other moldable and flexible durable andlight material, provides a protective layer for device 110 fromscratching and other damages. Housing 111 is built in variety of shapesand sizes to tightly match the various designs of handheld devices andis not limited to the shapes shown. For example, it can be rectangularand with sufficient thickness to match an iPHONE™, or it can be squareto match a KINDLE™ eReader. It can also provide a personalized andcustomized pattern or color for a user to have a feel of fashion orpersonal decoration. Various apertures 103, 113 on the side wall or topside of the case 100 can be configured to accommodate access to variousbuttons of the electronic device 110, such as power button 120, volumecontrol button 114, and ports, such as USB port.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,carrier case 100 does not have a front panel, allowing full directaccess to the front screen 122 of device 110. Especially for touchscreen devices, this front opening is functionally convenient, yetelegant in style. The edge of side walls of housing 111 is slightlycurved as a retaining lip to increase the holding grip on device 110.Alternatively, the side walls of housing 111 is a rubberized surface toincrease the holding grip on device 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetop area 400 of case 100 covering the earphone jack 112 area isconfigured with a slightly burgeon compartment or bounded region 125 formounting earphone/earbud station 115 (FIGS. 3 and 4). In accordance withan aspect of the claimed invention, earphone or earbud station 115 cancomprise one aperture or two cylindrical apertures, sized to hold a pairof earphones 117, 119 (e.g., a wireless earphones or earbuds) withfriction, but may be monolithically formed with case 100 (not separate)and may be also co-continuous (not separate openings). Alternatively,the earphone stations 107, 109 can comprise one opening to receive apair of earbuds or earphones 117, 119. The material of earbud station115 may be made of either plastic or an elastomeric or the combinationof materials for elasticity. Adaptor rings may be provided (shown butnot numbered) for adjusting a general opening to a reduced size forperfect fitting of a particular earbud to the station 115. Earbudconnecting cables 121, 123 are contained inside the carrier case housing111 through apertures of earphone station 115 and reel in and out duringuse.

In reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, carrier case 100 includes a middlecassette or plug-in panel 300 that is configured with one, two or morechambers 127, 129 for containing earphone/earbud cables 121,123. Inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,retractable mechanisms 127A, 129A, such as spring reels or spools 610can be replaceably inserted into the chambers 127, 129 for automaticretraction of the earphone cables 121, 123 after use. The retractionmechanism is individually indexable (retraction, partial retraction,hold in position etc.) and each retraction mechanism is individuallyoperable (one ear bud or both). An additional exterior antennareceiver/transmitter chip (not shown) may also be fixedly mounted insidethe chambers, or proximate to the shell and body to enhance a cell phonesignal receiving/sending capacity. Alternatively, the pair of earphones117, 119 can be connected to a single earphone cable, thereby requiringonly one chamber 127 for containing a single earphone/earbud cable 121and only one retractable mechanism 127A for automatic retraction of theearphone cable 121 after use.

Earphone/earbud cables 121, 123 are guided with channels to therespective chambers 127, 129 where the rest of the cable length iscoiled inside the chambers 127, 129. Earphone/earbud plug head 105 isguided by one of the channels to the top to be in the proximity of anearphone jack of handheld device 110. Earphone/earbud earplugs orearpieces 117, 119 are housed in or fit into earphone station 115, whenin use, optionally one or both, can be pulled from the station 115, andretracted back to the station 115 after use using a continuous pull or aratchet as is known in the electrical-power-cord-retraction-art.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention,panel 300 is configured to be easily assembled with and into theexterior housing 111 and held by friction or a slight protrusionconfigured inside housing 111, and may be optionally sonically fixed(welded) or otherwise fixed in place. Similarly, the earbud station 201can be assembled removably or in a fixed manner. As exemplary shown inFIG. 23, the carrier case 200 comprises a hinged cover 203 to open andclose the aperture of the earbud station 201 or charging station 510.

As will be understood by those of skill in the art, the outer housingthickness of 111 may also be formed with openings or transparentportions to show a brand region on the electronic device. Similarly,such openings or portions may be provided to receive retractionmechanisms 127A, 129A as a stylized configuration. In accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, as shown in FIG. 18, thecarrier case 200 comprises multiple colored light emitting diodes (LEDs)550 to display a logo, advertisement or aesthetically pleasing patternson the back of the case. Preferably, the LED lights 550 are connected toelectronic device via wire or wirelessly such that the electronic devicecan control and change the patterns, logo or advertisement displayed bythe LEDs 550.

The back panel of housing 111 is configured with a slightly enlargedbounding region or compartment 125 for mounting earphone/earbud station115. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention, as shown in FIG. 5, earbud/earphone station 201 is structuredto be an elongated tubular structure with two or more apertures 203, 205shaped to match an earplug head and can be removably positioned or canbe fixed in place. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, the station holder 201 can be monolithically moldedinto the backing of the case 100, 200. The apertures of the earbudstation 201 can be configured slightly bigger than most of the earplugheads but puffed with rubber like material, to able to fit an O-ring orother adaptive structures for elasticity and tight fitness. Panel 300may be replaced with other types of configurations suitable for theparticular electronic device. It is appreciated that the panel 300 caninclude openings or regions that allow use of any electronic-devicecamera/video, aperture, or brand indicia.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thechamber structure and channels can be monolithically, directly molded onthe middle cassette or plug-in panel 300 or back panel of housing 211.In reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the handheld device carrier case 200comprises a housing 211 and one or more storage chambers 605 toremovably house one or more accessories, such as earbud cables, wirelessearbuds, headphone cables, e-cigarettes, cigars, cigarettes, lipsticks,lip balms, and like. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, the chambers 605 can house one or more retractablemechanism 600. Chamber structure 605 with one or more guiding channels213, 215, 216 can be configured on the interior side of the back panelof housing 211 or on the plug-in panel 300. Earphone station 201 can bemounted at the top ends of the channels 213, 215. Channel 216 isconfigured for holding earphone plug head 225 to be plug into theearphone jack of a handheld device 110. Channels 213, 215 guide theearphone cables 229, 231 when they are pulled out for use and retractedinto the respective retracting mechanism 600 for storage.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, aspring box can be mounted inside each retractable mechanism 600 forautomatic and independent retraction of the cables 229, 231 after use.As exemplary shown in FIG. 19, the retractable mechanism 600 comprises aspool 610 to store the cable, a motor spring 620 and a spool contactdisc 630 to electrically connect the cables 231, 229 to an audio jackelement or earphone plug 225 which connects to the handheld electronicdevice 110. To retract the cables 231, 229, the retractable mechanism600 releases the motor spring 620 which rotates the spool 610 to roll orwrap the cables onto the spool. One or both cables 231, 229 are unwoundfrom its respective spring-biased spool 610 by the user and the cablesare wound on the spring biased spool 610 by the retractable mechanism600 after use. Alternatively, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 22-23, theretractable mechanism 600 can comprise a washer 625 that abuts againstthe back panel of the housing 211, the motor spring 620, the spool 610,a spool contact disc 630 fasted or connected onto the spool 610 and acontact film 635, preferably a printed circuit board (PCB), which isfixed to the plug-in panel 300. The contacts on the spool contact disc630 permits the cables 231, 229 on the rotating spool 610 to remain inelectrical connection with the contact film 635. The contact film iselectrically connected to the plug head 225.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theautomatic retraction of the cables 229, 231 can be triggered by a gentlepull of the respective cable 229, 231 or by engaging a respectiveretraction or spool button 650, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 20 and 21.The retraction button 650 can be a push on/off button or a slidableretraction button moveable to the first and second positions. Eachretracting mechanism 600 can be independently operated and controlled bythe respective retraction button 650. As exemplary shown in FIG. 20A,the slidable retraction button 650 is moved to the second position (ormoved towards the top end of the case) to engage the retractablemechanism 600 to retract the cables. As exemplary shown in FIG. 20B, theslidable retraction button 650 is moved to the first position (or movedtowards the bottom end of the case) to prevent the retractable mechanism600 from retracting the cables into the spool 610 but permitting theuser to pull out more cable.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIGS. 21A-B, the slidable retraction button 650 isspring loaded such that it remains in the first position until theretraction button 650 is moved to second position to retract the cables229, 231 and returns automatically to the first position when theretraction button 650 is released. That is, the retraction button 650must be held in the second position to retract the cables 229, 231,otherwise the retraction button 650 returns to the first position. Theuser moves the retraction button 600 to the second or “retract” positionby sliding the button towards the bottom end of the case and holds theretraction button 650 to retract the respective cables 229, 231 ontotheir respective spool or reel 610, and the release of the retractionbutton 650 stops or disengages the retractable mechanism 600. That is,two cables 229, 231 can be pulled independently from its respectivespool 610 to pull out a different cable length, e.g., 1 foot of cable231 is pulled out and 2 foot of cable 229 is pulled out. Additionally,for example, cable 231 can be retracted independent of cable 229, suchthat the earbud 221 connected to cable 231 is completely retracted intothe earphone/earbud station 201 while the earbud 223 connected to cable229 remains outside of the earphone/earbud station 201.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theearbuds 221 and 223 can be attached to the same cable, thereby requiringonly one retracting mechanism 600, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 20A-B and24A-B. The earbuds 221, 223 docketed or stored in the earbud station 201when not in use can be retrieved or ejected from the earbud station 201.In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecarrier case 200 comprises an accessory button 655 to slide out theearbuds 221, 223 from the earbud station 201, as exemplary shown inFIGS. 24A-B. The accessory button 655 is moved towards the earbudstation 201 to slide out the earbuds 221, 223 and is moved away from theearbud station 201 to slide the earbuds 221, 223 into the earbud station201. Alternatively, the accessory button 655 can be spring loaded,similar to the retraction button 650, so that the accessory button 655remains in or returns to the first position (as exemplary shown in FIG.24A) unless the accessory button 655 is moved to and held at the secondposition to eject or slide out the earbuds 221, 223 from the earbudstation 201 (as exemplary shown in FIG. 24B).

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIGS. 21A-21B, each retractable mechanism 600comprises a friction based braking system 640 to control and reduce thespeed of the spring reel or spool 610 when the cables 229, 231 are beingretracted into the retractable mechanism 600. The motor spring 620 ofthe spring loaded retractable mechanism 600 can rotate the spring reelor spool 610 at drastic, uncontrollable speed upon release of the springloaded mechanism 600 to retract the cable, thereby potentiallystretching or even damaging the cables 229, 231. In accordance with anaspect of the claimed invention, the friction based braking system 640comprises one or more damping pads 660 to slow down the spring reel orspool 610. For example, when the spring loaded retractable mechanism 600is in retraction mode (the retraction button 650 is in the second orretract position, as exemplary shown in FIG. 21B), the damping pads 660are engaged to apply pressure to the spool 610 to slow its rotationalspeed.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIGS. 26A-B, the storage chamber 501, 605 andretraction mechanism 600 retracts and stores the headphone plug/cable550 for use with a standard headphone (not shown). The retractablemechanism 600, preferably comprising the friction based braking system640, automatically retracts the headphone plug/cable 550 after use.Similar to the earbud cables 229, 231, the automatic retraction of theheadphone plug/cable 550 can be triggered by a gentle pull on the cable550 or by engaging the retraction button 650. The headphone plug 550docketed or stored in the earbud station 201 when not in use can beretrieved or ejected from the earbud station 201. Similar to the earbuds221, 223, the station 201 is configured to accommodate the headphoneplug 550 and the accessory button 655 slides the headphone plug 550 inand out of the station 201, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 26A-B. Theaccessory button 655 is moved towards the station 201 to slide out theheadphone plug 550 and is moved away from the station 201 to slide theheadphone plug 550 into the station 201. Alternatively, the accessorybutton 655 can be spring loaded such that the accessory button 655remains in or returns to the first or “rest” position until theaccessory button 655 is moved to second position to eject or slide outthe headphone plug 550 from the station 201. The headphone plug 500 canbe used with the headphone by inserting the pulled out headphone plug550 into an audio port on the headphone or headset (not shown).

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecables 231, 229 can be magnetized such that two cables 231, 229 act as asingle cable. A magnetic compound powder can be added to the moltenrubber/plastic coating to the first cable 231 and a ferrous metal powdercan be added to the molten rubber/plastic coating the second cable 229.Once cured and molded, these two separable cables 231, 229 aremagnetically attracted to each other to form a single cable but allowingthe user to peal apart into two cables. Depending on the application ofthe claimed invention, the magnetized cables 231, 229 can operate with adual retractable mechanism 600 or a single retractable mechanism 600. Inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetwo magnetized cables 231, 229 are independently retracted by therespective dual retractable mechanism 600. Channels 213, 215 separatesthe two magnetized cables 231, 229 and guide the two magnetized cables231, 229 when they are pulled out and retracted into the respective dualretractable mechanism 600. When two earbuds 221, 223 attached to the twomagnetized cables 231, 229 are pulled out from the earphone station 201,the two magnetized cables 231, 229 are magnetically attracted to eachother to form a single cable and the user can peel apart a section ofthe two magnetized cables 231, 229 to separate the earbuds 221, 223.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetwo magnetized cables 231, 229 are magnetically attached to form asingle cable and retracted into the same retractable mechanism. That is,one of the channel 213, 215 guides both magnetized cables 231, 229 whenthey are pulled out and refracted into the same retractable mechanism600. When two earbuds 221, 223 attached to the two magnetized cables231, 229 are pulled out, the user can separate the two magneticallyattached cables 231, 229 into two separate cables 231, 229 of desiredlength.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 16-17, the back panel of carrier case 200 or one side ofthe plug-in panel 300 can comprise one or more storage chambers 501 tohouse one or more batteries 500 instead of the retractable mechanisms600. Although, the storage chambers 501 are shown as circular in FIG.16, it is appreciated that the storage chamber 501 can be shaped tohouse a different shaped battery 500, such as a square or rectangularshaped battery 500. The battery 500 is operable to extend the batterylife of the electronic device and/or charge the wireless earbuds 520,preferably Bluetooth™ earbuds 520, when it is placed in the chargingstation 510. The wireless earbuds 520 click in and out of the chargingstation 510. The wireless earbuds 520 communicates wirelessly, such asvia Bluetooth, with the electronic device 110. Preferably, the accessorybutton 655 can be used to dispense or pushed out the wireless earbuds520 from the charging station 510, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 24A-Bwith wired earbuds 221, 223. The battery chambers 501 are in electricalconnection with the electronic device and the charging station 510. Inaccordance with an aspect of the claimed invention, the guides 213, 215houses wires connecting the earbud station 510 and guide 216 can be usedto house wires connecting the battery 500 to the electronic device.Accordingly, the claimed system provides protection, storage and batterymanagement to wireless Bluetooth earphones and smartphones. Although twostorage chambers 501 and two batteries 500 are shown in FIG. 16, it isappreciated that the carrier case 200 can comprise one storage chamber501 to house one battery 500.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asexemplary shown in FIG. 25A-B, the back panel of carrier case 200 or oneside of the plug-in panel 300 can be monolithically, directly moldedwith chambers and/or channels to house one or more accessories 530, suchas lipsticks, lip protection balm, cigarettes, cigars or electroniccigarettes (or e-cigarettes). The ejection button 655 can be used toretrieve, push out or eject an accessory from the storage chambers 501.It is appreciated that although the storage chamber 501 is illustratedas being circular in FIG. 16, it can be molded into any shape toaccommodate different shaped accessories, such as a tubular shapedstorage chamber to store e-cigarette, cigar, cigarette, lip balm orlipstick, as exemplary shown in FIGS. 25A-B. As with the wirelessearbuds 520, the charging station 510 charges the e-cigarette 530 usingthe internal battery 500 when it is stored in the storage chamber 501and can be ejected from the storage chamber 501 by the retraction button650, as exemplary shown in FIG. 25B.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, anexterior antenna transmitter/receiver maybe fixedly mounted into thechamber structures 605 to enhance the signal reception of the handheldelectronic device 110, such as a cellular or WI-FI reception for a cellphone.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 18, the carrier case 200 comprises multiple colored LEDlights 550 to display a logo, advertisement or aesthetically pleasingpatterns on the back of the case. Preferably, the LED lights 550 areconnected to electronic device 110 via wire or wirelessly such that theelectronic device can control and change the patterns, logo oradvertisement displayed by the LED lights 550.

Other features exterior look may be configured as described in FIGS.7-12 for matching a handheld device 110, with sufficient aperturesconfigured on the sides for accessing the buttons of the device. Theseviews are provided for non-limiting illustrative purposes. As will benoted in FIG. 13, the upper lip region is slightly larger to encompassthe particular audio jack (3.5 mm type) in these versions, but shouldjack-access be on the bottom region, the larger region in the case wouldbe optionally positioned to allow insertion and removal appropriate tothe electronic device. Although, FIGS. 7-12 show the carrier case foruse with a cell phone or smart phone, it is appreciated that theinventive carrier case can be applied to any hand held electronicdevice, such as a tablet, e-reader, MP3 device and a remote controldevice for controlling operating an electronic device, such as TVs,blu-ray players, video-streaming players, etc.

Regarding FIGS. 13-15, illustrative exemplary actuation systems 301,302, 303 in accordance with embodiments of the claimed invention areprovided. In actuation system 301 as exemplary shown in FIGS. 13A-B, anaudio jack element or earphone plug (e.g., 105, or 225) can be removedand inserted using a wedge member 310 by the moving or sliding the plugbutton 315 towards the jack element 225 (as exemplary shown in FIG. 13A)to drive wedge 310 under and thus lift the jack element 225 out of thereceiving hole 112 (e.g., an audio port) in the handheld electronicdevice 110. Thereafter, the plug button 315 is moved away from the jackelement 225 (as exemplary shown in FIG. 13B) and the jack element 225 ispushed downwardly into the receiving hold 112 to reinstall the jack fordesired use. In this way, a user can easily (and one-handedly) removeand reinsert the jack element 225 and thus activate and deactivate theearbud system.

As exemplary shown in FIG. 14, a lever member 314 has a projectingportion 315 through a case opening and a fixed position 316 allowingmember 314 to operate as a pivot lever. Lever member 314 is configuredto capture the jack element or earphone plug 105, 225 and control itsmovement relative to the insertion axis, and thus similarly lifting orremoving the earphone plug 105, 225 in direction A from the receivinghole 112 of the electronic device and inserting the earphone plug 105,225 in direction B into the receiving hole 112 of the electronic device.

As exemplary shown in FIG. 15, a pivot member 320 is captively pivotablewithin case 100, 200 to operably secure the jack member or earphone plug105, 225 to the electronic device. The pivot member 320 is operable inpivot motion A to remove earphone plug 105, 225 from the receiving hole112 of the electronic device and operable in pivot motion B to insertthe earphone plug 105, 225 into the receiving hole 112 of the electronicdevice. Such pivoting may be threaded (both pivot and rising/lowering),or may be a pivot-wedge system (pivot-driving-a-wedge for lifting withpress-return) without departing from the scope and spirit of the presentinvention. As will be understood by those of skill in the art, each ofthese alternative and operative mechanisms, or means, areinsertion-removal means and are not limited to the present alternativeillustrations, but instead include all related variations thataccomplish a similar function.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, acable retractor 1000, as shown in FIGS. 27-36, 42A-D, and 43-47, can beused with a wide variety of portable electronic devices 110, includingbut not limited to phones, smart phones, gaming systems, portable mediaplayers, and the like.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 27-35, the cable retractor or cable retraction system1000 generally comprises a top housing 1010 and a reel 1030. The reel1030 comprises a first face 1040 and a second face 1050, a bottomhousing 1150, a spring 1220, a cable 1230, and a ball bearing 1240. Inaccordance with an aspect of the claimed invention, as shown in FIG.56A-B, the cable retractor 1000 comprises a pin arm 2000 (rod or latcharm 2000) and pin tip 2010 instead of the ball bearing 1240. The cableretractor 1000 is configured to retract a cable 1230 to store the cableand to allow extension of the cable 1230 when the cable is being used.In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retractor 1000 can be removably mounted or coupled to a portableelectronic device 110. Alternatively, the cable retractor 1000 can beremovably incorporated into a protective case 100 for use with theportable electronic device 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 56A-B, pin arm 2000 lies above the plane of the groovetrack 1060. The pin tip 2010 drops down into the plane and interactswith the groove track 1060. Pin arm 2000 rotates around its pivot point2020 such that the pin tip 2010 moves radially towards or away from thegrooves track center while always remaining within the groove track1060. The pin tip 2010 functions similar to a ball bearing 1240 placedwithin a confined space, as described herein.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thebottom housing 1150 comprises a ball bearing or pin containment area1170 and the second face 1050 of the reel 1030 comprises a groove trackor ball bearing groove track 1060 which guides the ball bearing 1240 orthe pin tip 2010 and pin arm 2000. The bottom housing 1150 and the reel1030 are cooperatively configured for the reel 1030 to rotate relativeto the bottom housing 1150 to wind and unwind the cable 1230. The tophousing 1010 and the bottom housing 1150 cooperatively define a cavity1180 in which reel 1030 is positioned therein, such that the cable 1230is wound or unwound from the reel 1030 so as to be drawn into or out ofthe cavity 1180. The top housing 1010, the bottom housing 1150 and thereel 1030 are cooperatively sized, generally circular in shape for thereel 1030 to rotate within the cavity 1180.

In accordance an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, therelative movement, preferably rotational movement, of the groove track1060 with respect to the ball bearing 1240 or the pin arm 2000 and pintip 2010 is described in conjunction with FIGS. 42A-D and 43-47. Duringoperation of the cable retractor 1000, the ball bearing 1240 or the pintip 2010 and the groove track 1060 rotate relative to each other. Forpurpose of simplicity, the motion will be described herein as though theball bearing 1240 or the pin tip 2010 is in motion while the groovetrack 1060 is stationary. In actual operation, as exemplary shown inFIGS. 42A-D, the groove track 1060 rotates while the ball bearing 1240or the pin tip 2010 is relatively stationary. The groove track 1060moves relative to the ball bearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 which onlyslides radially. That is, the groove track 1060 enables and disables therotational movement of the cable retractor 1000. As noted herein, therotational movement of the cable retractor 1000, specifically, therotational movement between the groove track 1060 and the ball bearing1240 or pin tip 2010, is activated and deactivated in response to thecable 1230 being pulled from the cable retractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 44, the groove track 1060 comprises an outer channel 1320,an inner channel 1340 and a lock point 1330. In accordance with anexemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, the various groove trackand ball bearing modes (or various groove track and pin modes) of thecable retractor 1000 are shown in FIG. 43 and described in conjunctionwith FIG. 44. As noted herein, for purpose of simplicity, the groovetrack/ball bearing motion (or the groove track/pin motion) will bedescribed herein as though the ball bearing 1240 or the pin tip 2010 ismotion while the groove track 1060 is stationary.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retraction operation Mode 1A is illustrated in FIG. 43A with theball bearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 located in the inner channel 1340. Inresponse to retraction of the cable 1230 from the cable retractor 1000(when the user pulls the cable 1230 from the cable refractor 1000), theball bearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 travels in a counter-clockwisedirection and the groove track 1060 guides the ball bearing 1240 or pintip 2010 into the outer channel 1320.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retraction operation Mode 1B is illustrated in FIG. 43B with theball bearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 located in the outer channel 1320. Theball bearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 moves in a counter-clockwise directionand remains in the outer channel 1320. The motion of the ball bearing1240 or pin tip 2010 is unimpeded as the desired amount of the cable1230 is retracted from the cable retractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retraction operation Mode 2 is illustrated in FIG. 43C. After thedesired amount of the cable 1230 has been refracted from the cableretractor 1000 (when the user stops pulling the cable 1230 from thecable retractor 1000), the force of the spring 1220 causes the ballbearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 to briefly rotate in clockwise direction.In the clockwise direction, the groove track 1060 guides the ballbearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 out of the outer channel and into the lockpoint 1330. The cable retractor 1000 is now locked with the desiredamount of the cable 1230 withdrawn or retracted from the cable retractor1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable storage operation Mode 3A is illustrated in FIG. 43D. When thecable 1230 is ready to be stored or re-spooled onto the reel 1030, theuser retracts the cable 1230 slightly (e.g., a short amount of the cable1230 is retracted) to force the ball bearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 totravel slightly in a counter-clockwise direction, as exemplary shown inFIG. 43D. The groove track 1060 guides the ball bearing 1240 or pin tip2010 into the inner channel 1340.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable storage operation Mode 3B is illustrated in FIG. 43E. After shortretraction of the cable 1230 during the cable storage operation Mode 3A,the user releases the cable 1230 and the spring 1220 drives the ballbearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 in a clockwise direction, as exemplaryshown in FIG. 43E. The groove track 1060 prevents the ball bearing 1240or pin tip 2010 from returning to the lock point 1330.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable storage operation Mode 3C is illustrated in FIG. 43F. The groovetrack 1060 guides the ball bearing 1240 or pin tip 2010 in a clock-wisedirection unimpeded within the inner channel 1340, as exemplary shown inFIG. 43F. This relative motion between the ball bearing 1240 (or pin tip2010) and the groove track 1060 continues unimpeded as the spring 1220re-spools and stores the cable 1230 onto the reel 1030.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thereel 1030 comprises an inner circular protrusion 1075 and outer circularprotrusion 1090 to define a first area 1110, a second area 1120 and athird area 1130. The first area 1110 for storing the cable 1230 ispositioned radially outward of the outer circular protrusion 1090 and isconfigured to store the bulk of the cable 1230. That is, the cable 1230is wound around the outer circular protrusion 1090 of the reel 1030 forstorage within the first or cable storage area 1110 generally in asingle plane. That is, the cable 1230 is wound into one or more windingswherein each revolution of the cable 1230 generally does not overlap anyother revolution of the cable 1230 in an axial direction and/or a singleplane passes through each entire revolution of the cable 1230 in thewinding.

The second area 1120 of the reel 1030 is positioned between the innercircular protrusion 1075 and the outer circular protrusion 1090. Thesecond area 1120 is configured to store the excess portion of cable1230. An aperture or slot 1100 on the outer circular protrusion 1090 areconfigured such that cable 1230 passes from the first area 1110 to thesecond area 1120, such that cable 1230 is wound radially outward of theouter circular protrusion 1090 in the first area 1110 and wound radiallyoutward of the inner circular protrusion 1095 in the second area 1120.The second area 1120 acts an expansion area to house or store excesscable, thereby permitting the claimed independent cable retractionsystem 1000 to utilize a single seamless cable with no breaks, splicesor cuts. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention, the first and second area 1110, 1120 are generally coplanarwith the third area 1130 for housing the spring 1220. It is appreciatedthat the coplanar relationship between the three areas 1110, 1120. 1130of the reel 1030 advantageously operates to minimize the thickness ofthe cable refractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, afirst end of the cable 1230 stored in the first area 1110 of the reel1030 exits through a port 1190 cooperatively formed by the top housing1010 and the bottom housing 1150. The first end of the cable 1230 isconfigured to be connected to an end piece, such as a pair of earbuds ora headphone plug. A second end of the cable 1230 exits the second area1120 through an aperture or port 1020 on the top housing 1010. Thesecond end of the cable 1230 is configured to be connected to an audioplug which connects to an audio port of the portable electronic device110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thetop housing 1010, the bottom housing 1150 and the reel 1030cooperatively define a central axis about which the reel 1030 rotatesand about which the cable 1230 is wound. The bottom housing 1150comprises a central rounded post 1200, which is received by a centralaperture 1140 of the reel 1030.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thesecond face 1050 of the reel 1030 and an inner face 1160 of the bottomhousing 1150 are configured for the second face 1050 of the reel 1030 toslide or rotate against the generally planar inner face 1160 of thebottom housing 1150.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theinner circular protrusion 1075 is configured to define the third area1130 radially inward thereof for storing the spring 1220. The spring1220 (e.g., a coiled clock or power spring) is positioned with the thirdarea 1130 and is configured to cause rotation of the reel 1030 relativeto the bottom housing 1150. An inner end of the spring 1220 is coupledto the central post 1200 of the bottom housing 1150 and an outer end ofthe spring 1220 is coupled to the reel 1030. Preferably, the centralpost 1200 has a slot 1210 for receiving the inner end of the spring1220. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimedinvention, the inner circular protrusion 1075 has one or more aperturesor cutouts 1080 for receiving the outer end of the spring 1220. When thereel 1030 is rotated relative to the bottom housing member 1150, thespring 1220 applies a counter-torque to the reel 1030 to cause rotationthereof.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thereel 1030 is configured to couple to the cable 1230, such that rotationof the reel 1030 causes the cable 1230 to be drawn into the first area1110 of the reel 1030 to be wound around the central axis of rotation asdefined by the central post 1200. In accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the claimed invention, the cable 1230 is coupled to thereel 1030 by way of the aperture 1100 in the outer circular protrusion1090, preferably a guided aperture or an aperture with a coupling totightly hold the cable 1230 placed therein.

Turning now to FIGS. 37, 39A-B, there is illustrated apeelable/splitable cable 1300 in accordance with an exemplary embodimentof the claimed invention. The claimed peelable/splitable cable 1300allows for a low profile cable design which contributes to the low orthin profile of the cable retractor 1000. It is appreciated that withoutthe claimed peelable/splitable cable, the cable for used in the cableretractor 1000 would require a large “y-split” feature instead of thecable y-split reinforcing component 1280, as shown in FIG. 39A.

As shown in FIGS. 39B-41, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention, the cable conductors 1290 are constructedco-planar on a single plane within the cable jacket material 1235,thereby allowing a low profile cable design which helps the profile ofthe overall system, i.e., the cable retractor 1000.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 41, the cable reinforcing component or cable tensilestrength component 1310 adds tensile strength to the cable 1230 andminimizes the stretching and breaking of the cable 1230.

As shown in FIGS. 37-38, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment ofthe claimed invention, the cable 1230 comprises a microphone housing1260 with a microphone 1250. The microphone 1250 adds interactivefunctionality to the cable 1230 and the media control button 1270provides operational control over music, videos, volume, calls as wellas control over various other software element of the portableelectronic device 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 45-46, the cable refractor 1000 comprises electricalcontacts or slips rings 1350. The electrical contacts 1350 and/or theslip rings 1360 can be arranged/mounted around the central round post orarbor 1200, on the spool 610, the reel 1030, on the top housing or cover1010, or the bottom housing or cover 1150 of the cable retractor 1000.It is appreciated that the electrical contacts 1350 and/or the sliprings 1360 can be located anywhere on the housing of the cable refractor1000. Also, it is appreciated that the electrical contacts 1350 and/orslip rings can be mounted in multiple areas of the cable retractor 1000,and in multiple shapes and sizes.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 45-46, the electrical contacts 1350 on the second face1050 of the reel 1030 is in electrical connection with the slip rings1360 on the bottom housing 1150 of the cable retractor 1000 to transmitelectrical signal between each other. This enables the cable retractor1000 utilize a reel 1030 with just one area to store the cable 1230,thereby minimizing the overall size of the cable retractor 1000. Inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theelectrical contacts 1350 on the reel 1030 and the slip rings 1360 on thebottom housing 1150 electrically connects the two sections of the cable1230 to an audio jack element or earphone plug 225, which connects tothe portable or handheld electronic device 110. The first section of thecable 1230 resides with or within the cable retractor 1000 and thesecond section of the cable 1230 resides outside the cable retractor1000 but within the protective housing 100. The electrical contacts 1350and/or the slip rings 1360 permits the first section of the cable 1230within the cable retractor 1000 to remain in electrical connection withsecond section of the cable 1230 within the protective case 100, therebyproviding electrical connection from the end piece (e.g., earphones orear buds 117, 119) to the plug head 225 and to the handheld electronicdevice 110.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theend piece (e.g., earphones or ear buds 117, 119) is located in a firstsection of the cable 1230 and the plug head 225 is located in a secondsection of the cable 1230. The electrical contacts 1350 and/or the sliprings 1360 moves or rotate the first section of the cable 1230independent of the second section of the cable 1230 while maintaining anelectrical connection between the two sections of the cable 1230.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theretractable storage system 100, 200 is a weatherproof housing system1400 for a portable handheld electronic device 110. As exemplary shownin FIGS. 47A-B, the weatherproof housing system 1400 comprises a firsthousing member 1410 that couples to a second housing member 1420. One ormore storage chambers 501, 605 are structured on the first housingmember 1410 for storing an accessory item, connecting with one or morechannels 213, 215, 216 wherein the channels lead to an accessory station201, 510. The first housing member 1410 is operably shaped and sized tobound the handheld electronic device 110 and enable wrapping around thehandheld device 110. First housing member 1410 can also comprise one ormore channels to receive a sealing element 1430, such as a compressiblegasket.

The second housing member 1420 comprises a plurality of side wallsoperably shaped and sized to bound the handheld electronic device 110and enable wrapping around the handheld device 110. The second housingmember 1420 can either be coupled directly to the first housing member1410 or the second housing member 1420 can comprise an optionalremovable back wall, similar to the plug-in panel 300, that can coupleto the first housing member 1410. The second housing member 1420 canalso comprise a front transparent membrane or protective screen cover1440 positioned over the front screen of the electronic device 110 whichallows the user to interface, access, use and view the features ofelectronic device 110 through this transparent membrane or protectivescreen cover 1440. The second housing member 1420 can also comprise anopen access area to the front screen of the portable handheld electronicdevice 110 to enable direct interface and usage with the electronicdevice 110. Second housing member 1420 can also include one or morechannels to receive a sealing element 1430, such as a compressiblegasket.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 48A-E, the weatherproof housing system 1400 comprises aremovable or permanent sealing element 1430, such as a gasket, rubberedge, tubing, TPE, flush compressed surfaces, adhesive, molding, elasticmaterial, compressible foam, a combination of compressible foam andrubber material and the like to create a hermetic, airtight, waterproof,weatherproof seal or bond. The removable or permanent sealing element1430 can protect the handheld electronic device 110 and the weatherproofhousing system 1400 from damage, such as water, any liquid, moisture,air, dirt, snow, mud, rain, dust, debris and the like. In accordancewith an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, the sealingelement 1430 can be utilized in areas of the weatherproof housing system1400 and electronic device 110 including but not limited to theinterface between the first housing member 1410 and second housingmember 1420, ports of the electronic device 110, accessory stationaperture of the weatherproof housing system 1400, button areas of theweatherproof housing system 1400, the front open access area of thesecond housing member 1420 and any interface between components of theweatherproof housing system 1400 or between a component of theweatherproof housing system 1400 and the handheld electronic device 110.In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theweatherproof housing system 1400 further comprises a coupling element1450 to couple the sealing element 1430 between components of theweatherproof housing system 1400 or between components of theweatherproof housing system 1400 and the handheld electronic device 110,including but not limited to a hinged door to fasten down the seal, aclasping mechanism, a snap-down or snap-in element, a male and femalecoupling element, such as tongue and groove, peg and hole.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thefirst housing member 1410 and second housing member 1420 are configuredsuch that they can be coupled together to form one single unit or thefirst housing member 1410 can be removed so that the second housingmember 1420 can be used as a stand-alone weather proof protectivehousing.

As shown in FIG. 48B, the second housing member 1420 or first housingmember 1410 can contain one or more control elements 1460 to operate acorresponding control of the electronic device 110. In accordance withan exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, each of one or morecontrol element can have a molded overlay that seals the controlelement.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 48F, the second housing member 1420 or first housingmember 1410 can contain a sound membrane material 1470 located aroundthe acoustic apertures or sound ports of the electronic device 110including but not limited to speaker and microphone ports. The soundmembrane material 1470 is configured to allow the transmission of soundto and from the electronic device 110, through the weatherproof housingsystem 1400 and remain impermeable to liquid such as water.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theretractable storage system 100, 200 provides an electronicengagement/disengagement of an accessory item. The electronicdisengagement of an accessory item allows the user to electronicallydisengage an accessory item 117, 119, 221, 223, 520, 550 connected tothe portable handheld electronic device 110 without the need tophysically disengage the accessory item from the portable handheldelectronic device. In accordance with an aspect of the claimedinvention, the plug or port electronic engagement/disengagement can beimplemented using the software of the electronic device, an applicationof the electronic device, or third party software to activate ordeactivate at least one port or audio port of a portable handheldelectronic device 110. As delineated herein, examples of accessory itemssuitable for electronic engagement/disengagement include but are notlimited to: earbuds, headphones, speakers, a plughead, an audio plug, acharging plug, or any plug that transmits and receives data. Forexample, if the accessory item 530 is wired headphones, the claimedelectronic disengagement allows the user to deactivate the headphonesand thereby utilize the internal speakers or audio components of theportable handheld electronic device without physically disengaging theheadphone plug 550 from the audio port 112 of the portable handheldelectronic device.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theretractable storage system 100, 200 comprises a self powered electricgenerating and battery charging system 1500 mounted on a portablehandheld electronic device 110. The self powered electric generating andbattery charging system 1500 generates electricity by means of aphysical interaction with a user via various methods, including but notlimited to kinetic motion, linear induction, crank powered, winduppowered and powered by general movement. The electricity produced by thesystem 1500 can be used to charge components 1530, such as battery, acapacitor or a super capacitor.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 49, the self powered electric generating and batterycharging system 1500 for generating and storing electricity comprises aretraction system or cable retractor 1510 that generates electricity byusing the kinetic energy generated by retracting a cable 1540. When thecable 1540 retracts, the retraction system 1510 interacts with at leastone electric generating component 1520 and charges a battery, acapacitor or a super capacitor 1530.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thecable retraction system 1510 is operably connected to the at least oneelectric generating component 1520, such as a DC generator, ACgenerator, self excitation generator, linear electric generator,piezoelectric generator and the like, by including but not limited togears, belts, magnets, pulleys and the like. The self powered electricgenerating and battery charging system 1500 can charge or maintain powerto components including but not limited to: an accessory item, such as awireless earbuds 520, the handheld electronic device 110, or an externalbattery 500.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 50, the retractable storage system 100, 200 comprisesfirst protective housing member 1610 (similar to the plug-in panel 300).The first protective housing member 1610 is preferably manufacturedseparately from the second protective housing member 1620. The firstprotective housing member 1610 is removably mounted to the secondprotective housing member 1620. One or more storage chambers 501 arestructured on the first protective housing member 1610 for storing anaccessory item and connecting with one or more channels 213, 215. Thechannels 213, 215 leading to an accessory station 115, 201, 510.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, thesecond protective housing member 1620 comprises an optional back walland plurality of side walls forming a bounding member operative shapedand sized to bound the handheld device 110 and enable wrapping aroundthe handheld device 110. The first protective housing member 1610 andsecond protective housing member 1620 are configured such that they canbe coupled together to form one single unit or one of the protectivehousing member, e.g., the first protective housing member 1610, can beremoved so that the remaining protective housing, e.g., the secondprotective housing member 1620, can be used as a stand-alone protectivehousing.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 51, independent subassemblies (SA) are secured together toform a single unit that is secured into the housing member 1700. Theindependent subassemblies can be components, such as storage chamber501, accessory station 115, 201, 510, battery 500, etc. The numerousbenefits of this embodiment include, but are not limited to, (a)interchangeability of sub-assemblies allowing for customizable andnon-fixed designs, (b) ease of manufacturing as smaller, easier tomanufacture components are assembled/connected to form larger componentswhich easily mount directly into or onto the housing member 1700, (c)elimination of the requirement for a separate mounting panel onto whichcomponents are assembled (that is, the sub-assemblies themselves connectto form the “panel” which mounts into the housing member 1700 resultingin reduced thickness and cost).

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 52A-C, the housing of a unified protective housing andaccessory storage system 1800 comprises two sections: a top housingmember 1810 and a bottom housing member 1820. The top housing member1810 comprises a protective housing member having a back wall andplurality of side walls forming the upper portion of a bounding member1800 operative shaped and sized to bound the handheld device 110 andenable wrapping around the handheld device 110. Further, the top housingmember 1810 can comprise at least one accessory station 510 or storagechamber 501. The bottom housing member 1820 comprises a protectivehousing member having a back wall and plurality of side walls formingthe lower portion of the bounding member 1800. Further, the bottomhousing member 1820 can comprise at least one accessory station 510 orstorage chamber 501.

Each housing member 1810, 1820 is configured such that the two housingmembers 1810, 1820 couple together to completely bound the handhelddevice 110 as well as operatively connect the respective storagechamber(s) 501 and accessory station(s) 510 to provide the unifiedprotective housing and accessory storage system 1800.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theretractable storage system 1900 comprises interchangeable modules. Theprotective housing member 1910 comprises a back wall and plurality ofside walls forming a bounding member operative shaped and sized to boundthe handheld device 110 and enable wrapping around the handheld device110. As exemplary shown in FIGS. 53A-55A, the protective housing member1910 comprises one or more securing elements 1920 to secure modularcomponents/accessories 1930 which are stored in or on the protectivehousing member 1910. As exemplary shown in FIGS. 53B-55B, the modularcomponents/accessories 1930 further comprising securing elements 1940,which are compatible with the securing elements 1910 of the protectivehousing member 1910. As shown in FIGS. 53A-55B, examples of the securingelements 1920, 1940 include, but are not limited to, male and femaleelement (e.g., tongue and groove, rack and drawer, peg and hole, etc.),magnetic, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, screws, glue, gridframework and the like.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, theretractable storage system 1900 comprises a protective housing member1910 having a back wall and plurality of side walls forming a boundingmember operative shaped and sized to bound the handheld device 110 andenable wrapping around the handheld device 110. The protective housingmember 1910 further comprises an enlarged compartment for storing anaccessory item. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, the protective housing member 1910 can be casted froma single piece of plastic, produced from a single mold, or constructedsuch that the compartment is an integral part of the protective housingmember 1910. Benefits of this embodiment include, but are not limitedto, reduced assembly complexity, time, and cost.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 57A-C, a protective housing 2110 for a handheldelectronic device 110 comprises one or more enlarged compartments 2110for storing an accessory item 530 and an aperture 2120 providing anaccess to or removal of the accessory item 530 stored in the enlargedcompartment 2110. The protective housing 2100 further comprises a door,lid, cover, or any movable barrier 2130 compatible with the aperture2120. The door 2130 can be closed to secure and protect the accessoryitem 530 stored within the enlarged compartment 2110. The door, whenopen, can be stored within the protective housing utilizing a door slot,opening, compartment, or chamber 2140. The purpose of the door slot 2140includes, but is not limited to preventing the door 2130 frominterfering with the use of the accessory item 530, protecting the door2130 from loss or damage, improving user experience, and aesthetics. Thedoor 2130 can be utilized to secure the accessory item 530 in apartially removed state. For example, if the accessory item 530 is wiredheadphones, the door 2130 can be shut on the cable 229, 231 to pinch orsecure the cable 229, 231 at the users desired length as well as preventdebris from entering the protective housing 2100 or the enlargedcompartment 2110 when the headphones are in use.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 57C, the door 2130 comprises one or more enlarged anchorpoints 2150 on the door 2130. The anchor 2160 prevents inadvertentremoval of the door 2130 from the door slot 2140, but allows intentionalremoval and reinstallation of the door 2130. Purposes of such removaland reinstallation of the door 2130 include, but are not limited to:cleaning, repair, replacement with a substitute door, andcollectability. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of theclaimed invention, one of the anchors 2160 is structured such that whenthe door 2130 is pulled from the door slot 2140, the anchor 2160mechanically stops at the predetermined position to be pivoted over theaperture 2120 to close and secure the door 2130.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 57C, the door 2130 further comprises a snap, ribbed edgeor securing element 2170 which mates with a compatible securing element2180 on the protective housing 2100 to secure the door 2130 over theaperture 2120 and to prevent inadvertent opening of the door 2130.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 58A-E, the cable retractor or cable retraction system1000 is mounted within the interior of vehicles. The cable retractor1000 comprises at least one motor spring 620 and cable 229, 231 operablymounted into or on a compartment, seat or area within the interior of avehicle, such as an airplane 2210, a train or subway 2220, a car, truckor bus 2230, a ship or boat 2270, or a submersible vessel 2280. Thecable retractor 1000 can be used to store and retract at least one cable229, 231 with at least one end piece. End pieces of the cable caninclude but are not limited to at least one of the following components:earbuds, headphones, speakers, a plughead, an audio plug, a chargingplug, or any plug that transmits and receives data.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIG. 58C, the cable retraction system 1000 can be mounted intothe dashboard, ceiling, floor, tables, center console, side walls,doors, arm rest or seat 2240 of a vehicle 2230, such as a car, truck orbus, for use by the driver or passenger of the vehicle 2230. As shown inFIG. 58B, the cable retraction system 1000 can be mounted into theceiling, tables, floor, side walls, support rail, arm rest or seat 2250of a train or subway 2220 for use by the passenger of the train orsubway 2220. As shown in FIG. 58A, the cable retraction system 1000 canbe mounted into the fuselage, ceiling, tables, floor, side walls, armrest or seat 2260 of an airplane 2210, such as commercial or privatepassenger airplane, for use by the passengers, crew, or pilot of theairplane 2210.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 59A-F, the cable retractor or cable refraction system1000 is mounted into or on a protective helmet. The cable retractor 1000comprises at least one motor spring 620 and cable 229, 231 operablymounted into or on a protective helmet, including but not limited to amotorcycle, dirtbike or ATV helmet 2310, a ski or snowboard helmet 2320,a bicycle or skateboard helmet 2330, a sport helmet 2340, such as afootball, hockey or baseball helmet, a police, firemen or militaryhelmet 2350 or a construction helmet 2360. The cable retraction system1000 can be used to store and retract at least one cable 229, 231 withat least one end piece. End pieces of the cable 229, 231 can include butare not limited to at least one of the following components: earbuds,headphones, speakers, a plughead, an audio plug, a charging plug, or anyplug that transmits and receives data.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the claimed invention, asshown in FIGS. 60A-E, the cable retractor or cable retraction system1000 is mounted into or on an article of clothing. The cable retractor1000 comprises at least one motor spring 620 and cable 229, 231 operablymounted into or on an article of clothing, including but not limited tojackets, ski or snowboard jackets 2410, shirts 2420, pants or shorts2430, sweaters or vests 2440, hats, caps or visors 2450. The cablerefraction system 1000 can be used to store and retract at least onecable 229, 231 with at least one end piece. End pieces of the cable 229,231 can include but are not limited to at least one of the followingcomponents: earbuds, headphones, speakers, a plughead, an audio plug, acharging plug, or any plug that transmits and receives data.

In the claims, means- or step-plus-function clauses are intended tocover the structures described or suggested herein as performing therecited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalentstructures. Thus, for example, although a nail, a screw, and a bolt maynot be structural equivalents in that a nail relies on friction betweena wooden part and a cylindrical surface, a screw's helical surfacepositively engages the wooden part, and a bolt's head and nut compressopposite sides of a wooden part, in the environment of fastening woodenparts, a nail, a screw, and a bolt may be readily understood by thoseskilled in the art as equivalent structures.

Having described at least one of the embodiments of the claimedinvention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will beapparent to those skills that the invention is not limited to thoseprecise embodiments, and that various modifications and variations canbe made in the presently disclosed system without departing from thescope or spirit of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the presentdisclosure cover modifications and variations of this disclosureprovided they come within the scope of the appended claims and theirequivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A retractable storage system for a handheldelectronic device, comprising: a protective housing member operativeshaped and sized to bound the handheld electronic device and enablewrapping around the handheld electronic device; at least one accessorystation structured on the housing member and having an aperture toarrest and dispense an accessory item; at least one storage chamberstructured on the housing member to store the accessory item; andwherein the protective housing member comprises a first housing part anda second housing part which combine to form one protective housingmember.
 2. The retractable storage system of claim 1, wherein the firsthousing part comprises said at least one accessory station and said atleast one storage chamber; wherein the second housing part is operablysecured to the handheld electronic device; and wherein the first housingpart is removable so that the second housing part is usable as astand-alone protective housing for the handheld electronic device. 3.The retractable storage system of claim 1, further comprising a door orlid configured to cover the aperture of said at least one accessorystation.
 4. The retractable storage system of claim 3, furthercomprising a slot or compartment structured on the protective housingmember to store the door or lid.
 5. The retractable storage system ofclaim 1, further comprising at least one cable with a plug head and anend piece.
 6. The retractable storage system of claim 5, furthercomprising at least one retractable mechanism mounted inside said atleast one storage chamber to retract and store said at least one cable7. The retractable storage system of claim 6, wherein said at least oneretractable mechanism comprises a first area, a second area and a thirdarea, the first area is configured to store a retractable length of saidat least one cable, the second area is configured to store an excessportion of said at least one cable, and the third area is configured tostore a power spring.
 8. The retractable storage system of claim 7,wherein the first area and the second area are coplanar on a singleplane with the third area.
 9. The retractable storage system of claim 5,further comprising a plug head actuation system comprising a componentto operably connect or disconnect an electrical signal between the plughead of said at least one cable to a port of the handheld electronicdevice.
 10. The retractable storage system of claim 9, wherein the endpiece is one of following accessory item: an earbud, earphone, headphoneor audio plug.
 11. The retractable storage system of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one battery mounted inside said at least one storagechamber to charge the handheld electronic device.
 12. A retractablestorage system for a handheld electronic device, comprising: a housingcomprising two housing parts, a first housing part and a second housingpart couple to form a single housing; at least one accessory stationstructured on the housing and having an aperture to arrest and dispensean accessory item; one or more storage chambers structured on thehousing to store the accessory item; and wherein the first housing partand the second housing part couple to form a waterproof and weatherproofseal to protect the handheld electronic device from water, moisture,dust and debris.
 13. The retractable storage system of claim 12, furthercomprising one or more channels structured on the housing to receive asealing element to provide an airtight, waterproof, seal or bond, thesealing element is one of the following: a gasket, a rubber edge or acompressible foam.
 14. The retractable storage system of claim 12,further comprising a transparent membrane or protective screen coversecured on the housing proximate to a front screen of the handheldelectronic device allowing a user to interface with and access touchscreen features of the handheld electronic device through thetransparent membrane or protective screen cover.
 15. The retractablestorage system of claim 13, further comprising a coupling element tosecure the sealing element between the first housing part and the secondhousing part.
 16. The retractable storage system of claim 15, whereinthe coupling element is one of the following: a hinged door, a claspingmechanism, a snap-down or snap-in element.
 17. The retractable storagesystem of claim 12, wherein the housing comprises one or more controlelements to operate a corresponding control of the handheld electronicdevice; and wherein each control element comprises a molded overlay toseal said each control element and to enhance usability of said eachcontrol element by a user.
 18. The retractable storage system of claim12, wherein the housing comprises a sound membrane material locatedaround acoustic apertures or sound ports of the handheld electronicdevice, the sound membrane material is configured to allow transmissionof sound to and from the handheld electronic device through the housingand to remain impermeable to liquid.
 19. The retractable storage systemof claim 12, further comprising at least one battery mounted inside oneof the storage chambers to charge the handheld electronic device. 20.The retractable storage system of claim 12, further comprising at leastone cable with a plug head and an end piece.
 21. The retractable storagesystem of claim 20, further comprising at least one retractablemechanism mounted inside one of the storage chambers to retract andstore said at least one cable.
 22. The retractable storage system ofclaim 20, further comprising a plug head actuation system comprising acomponent to operably remove or connect an electrical signal between theplug head of said at least one cable to a port of the handheldelectronic device.
 23. The retractable storage system of claim 21,wherein the end piece is one of following accessory item: an earbud,earphone, headphone or audio plug.
 24. The retractable storage system ofclaim 21, wherein said at least one retractable mechanism comprises afirst area, a second area and a third area, the first area is configuredto store a retractable length of said at least one cable, the secondarea is configured to store an excess portion of said at least onecable, and the third area is configured to store a power spring.
 25. Aretractable storage system for a handheld electronic device, comprising:a protective housing member; at least one cable with a plug head and anend piece; at least one accessory station to dispense and store the endpiece of said at least one cable: one or more storage chambersstructured on the protective housing member to store an accessory item;and at least one retractable mechanism operably mounted inside one ofthe storage chambers to retract and store said at least one cable, saidat least one retractable mechanism comprises a groove track system tocontrol a rotational movement of said at least one retractablemechanism, the groove track system comprises a groove track component toenable and disable the rotational movement of said at least oneretractable mechanism, the groove track component is at least one pin,rod or latch.
 26. The retractable storage system of claim 25, furthercomprising electrical contacts or slip rings to electrically connect atleast two sections of said at least one cable.
 27. The retractablestorage system of claim 26, wherein the end piece is located in a firstsection of said at least one cable and the plug head is located in asecond section of said at least one cable; and wherein the electricalcontacts or slip rings are configured to move or rotate the firstsection of said at least one cable independent of the second section ofsaid at least one cable while maintaining an electrical connection. 28.The retractable storage system of claim 25, wherein said at least oneretractable mechanism comprises a first area, a second area and a thirdarea, the first area is configured to store a retractable length of saidat least one cable, the second area is configured to store an excessportion of said at least one cable, and the third area is configured tostore a power spring.
 29. The retractable storage system of claim 28,wherein the first area and the second area of said at least oneretractable mechanism are coplanar on a single plane with the thirdarea.
 30. The retractable storage system of claim 25, wherein the groovetrack component is activated in response to said at least one cablebeing pulled from said at least one retractable mechanism.